Thabo Nkosi 
Leapmotor has entered the South African market with the C10 REEV, a Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV), in partnership with Stellantis. Two trims are available: Style (R759,900 or ~$42,000) and Design (R799,900 or ~$44,200). Both models offer a combined range of 970 km (603 miles), including 145 km (90 miles) of pure electric driving. Deliveries began in Stellantis dealerships in October 2025.
Key Features:
- Powertrain: Rear-mounted electric motor (158 kW/212 hp) with a 28.4 kWh battery and a 1.5L generator.
- Charging: DC fast charging (30%-80% in 18 minutes).
- Warranties: 5-year/100,000 km vehicle and 8-year/150,000 km battery coverage.
- Style Trim: 18-inch wheels, 14.6-inch touchscreen, 7 airbags, 360° camera.
- Design Trim: Adds heated/ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, 20-inch wheels.
While the Style trim focuses on affordability, the Design trim includes premium upgrades for added comfort and style. Both models lack Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
Leapmotor C10 REEV First Drive – The New-Thinking Electric Vehicle with a Generational Backup!
1. Leapmotor C10 REEV Style
As part of Leapmotor’s launch in South Africa, the Style trim combines performance and practicality designed for local drivers. Positioned as the entry-level option, it still packs an impressive set of features.
Specifications and Features
The Style trim is where Leapmotor’s South African lineup begins. Despite being the base model, it comes loaded with features. It’s powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 158 kW (212 hp) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque, paired with a 28.4 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery. A 1.5-liter engine acts as a generator, ensuring extended range.
The car measures 4,739 mm (186.6 in) in length, with a 2,825 mm (111.2 in) wheelbase, offering a spacious flat-floor interior. Key features include a 14.6-inch touchscreen running LeapOS 4.0 on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker sound system. Safety is a priority with seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a full ADAS suite, including autonomous emergency braking and lane centering. It even boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Drivers can choose from four energy modes:
- EV+: The generator activates when the battery drops below 10%.
- EV: The generator kicks in at 25% battery charge.
- Fuel: Keeps the battery between 30-80%, ideal for long highway drives.
- Power+: The generator runs continuously for maximum performance.
Charging is quick and convenient, with DC fast charging at 65 kW, which takes the battery from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes. The combined range is an impressive 970 km (603 mi), with 145 km (90 mi) on pure electric power. Storage is equally practical, offering 435 liters (15.4 cu ft) of boot space, expandable to 1,410 liters (49.8 cu ft) when the rear seats are folded.
Pricing
The C10 REEV Style is priced at R759,900 (around $42,000), making it competitively positioned. This price includes a five-year/100,000 km (62,137 mi) warranty and service plan, along with an eight-year/150,000 km (93,206 mi) battery warranty. Operating costs are estimated at R1.61–R2.07 per km ($0.09–$0.11 per mi), with fuel consumption rated at 5.5 L/100 km (42.8 mpg).
Availability and Accessibility
The Style trim was officially available at Stellantis dealerships across South Africa starting October 15, 2025. These dealerships, which also support brands like Jeep, Peugeot, Opel, Fiat, and Citroen, provide an extensive service network – a big advantage for a newcomer like Leapmotor. The vehicle also supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, enabling software upgrades without a trip to the dealership. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are not yet supported, which might be a consideration for some buyers.
2. Leapmotor C10 REEV Design
The Design trim builds on the Style trim, offering a touch of extra luxury and style for an additional $2,200. This version enhances both the driving experience and the car’s overall visual appeal, making it a more premium choice for those looking to upgrade.
Specifications and Features
While the motor and battery remain the same as the Style trim, the Design trim focuses on aesthetics and comfort. It introduces a sleek continuous rear light bar and rear privacy glass, giving the car a more polished look. Additionally, the wheels are upgraded to 20-inch alloy wheels, replacing the Style’s 18-inch set.
Inside, the cabin gets a significant boost in comfort. The seats are now heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable, complete with memory settings. A panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space, while ambient lighting enhances the overall atmosphere. The 14.6-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster are carried over, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip running LeapOS 4.0. Safety features, including the five-star Euro NCAP rating, seven airbags, and a 360-degree camera, also remain unchanged.
Performance and charging capabilities are identical to the Style trim, but the Design trim’s upgrades cater to those who prioritize a more refined driving experience.
Pricing
The price for the C10 REEV Design is set at R799,900 (about $44,200). This includes the same warranty package as the Style trim, with no additional operating costs.
Availability and Accessibility
The Design trim was launched alongside the Style trim on October 15, 2025, and is available through Stellantis dealerships across South Africa. These dealerships also support brands like Jeep, Peugeot, Opel, Fiat, and Citroen, ensuring a well-established service infrastructure. The vehicle supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for software improvements. However, it’s worth noting that Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are still not available in this trim.
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Pros and Cons
Leapmotor C10 REEV Style vs Design Trim Comparison
Leapmotor is making waves in urban mobility by blending cutting-edge technology with a focus on safety. Offering two distinct trims – C10 REEV Style and C10 REEV Design – this vehicle provides options to suit different preferences. While both trims share the same powertrain and tech foundation, they differ in comfort features and styling. Below, we break down the main pros and cons to help you decide which trim fits your lifestyle.
Strengths
One of the standout features of both trims is the impressive total range, which eases range anxiety, even on longer trips. The 145 km (90 miles) pure electric range comfortably covers typical daily commutes, while the total range extends to 970 km (603 miles). Charging is quick and convenient – DC fast charging can take the battery from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
Safety is another strong suit, with both trims earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Features like seven airbags, a 360° camera, and adaptive cruise control come standard, ensuring peace of mind on the road. On the tech side, the 14.6-inch touchscreen powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip delivers smooth performance, and the cabin is pleasantly quiet during operation.
Weaknesses
However, there are a few drawbacks. The infotainment system lacks support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which may be a dealbreaker for some buyers, especially at this price point. Additionally, the Advanced Driver Assistance System can feel overly sensitive, issuing frequent alerts for minor lane deviations. Another challenge is the minimalist dashboard design, which requires drivers to rely on the touchscreen for basic functions – something that could be distracting. Lastly, during spirited driving, real-world fuel consumption tends to exceed the official ratings.
Trim Comparison
| Feature | C10 REEV Style | C10 REEV Design |
|---|---|---|
| Price | R759,900 ($41,900) | R799,900 ($44,200) |
| Pure Electric Range | 145 km (90 miles) | 145 km (90 miles) |
| Total Range | 970 km (603 miles) | 970 km (603 miles) |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloy | 20-inch alloy |
| Seat Features | Power-adjustable | Heated, ventilated, power-adjustable with memory |
| Sunroof | Not included | Panoramic sunroof |
| Unique Interior Upgrades | LED headlamps, 360° camera | Rear light bar, ambient lighting, rear privacy glass |
The C10 REEV Style trim is the better choice if you’re focused on value, offering excellent performance and technology at a lower price. On the other hand, the C10 REEV Design trim adds a touch of luxury for an additional $2,200, with upgrades like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and larger 20-inch wheels. These features enhance comfort and make it a great option for drivers who spend more time on the road and value premium touches.
Conclusion
Leapmotor has introduced the C10 REEV in South Africa, offering two trims – Style and Design – that share the same REEV powertrain but cater to different preferences. Priced at $41,900 (R759,900) for the Style trim and $44,200 (R799,900) for the Design trim, both models deliver an impressive total range of 603 miles, including 90 miles of pure electric driving.
For those watching their budget, the Style trim provides essential tech features while saving around $2,300. On the other hand, the Design trim steps up with added comforts like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and sleek 20-inch wheels, combining luxury with functionality.
The REEV system addresses range anxiety with its ability to fast charge from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes. Plus, the 1.5-liter petrol generator ensures you’re covered when charging stations aren’t nearby. As a Stellantis representative put it:
"The REEV is the perfect answer for customers who want to jump into electric mobility but are still not fully convinced by EVs."
Both trims come with a solid warranty package: a five-year/62,000-mile vehicle warranty, a matching service plan, and an eight-year/93,000-mile battery warranty. Buyers can purchase either model through Stellantis dealerships across South Africa.
With its thoughtful design, advanced technology, and reassuring warranty coverage, the C10 REEV offers a well-rounded option for South African drivers looking to embrace electric mobility without compromise.
FAQs
What are the key differences between the Style and Design trims of the Leapmotor C10 REEV?
The Design trim steps things up with features focused on comfort and ease. It includes power-adjustable driver and passenger seats that come with heating, ventilation, and memory functions – perfect for tailoring your ride to your liking. Plus, flush door handles add a sleek, modern touch to the exterior.
On the other hand, the Style trim keeps things simpler. While it skips these premium extras, it still delivers the essential features that define the C10 REEV, ensuring a solid and reliable experience.
Both trims are powered by the same cutting-edge electric range-extending technology, offering a balance of efficiency and performance. Whether you prioritize luxury or simplicity, there’s an option to match your comfort needs.
How does the Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) system in the Leapmotor C10 work?
The Leapmotor C10 REEV is equipped with a clever combination of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine and a 28.4 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery. Interestingly, the engine doesn’t directly power the wheels. Instead, it serves as a generator, recharging the battery either automatically when needed or through specific driver-selected modes. The electric motor is the real workhorse here, delivering about 215 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides quick acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.3 seconds.
On electric power alone, the SUV can cover up to 90 miles before the generator kicks in. With a full tank and charge, the total range extends to an impressive 603 miles. Charging is flexible: you can use a 65 kW DC fast charger to juice the battery from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes, or stick to standard AC charging for everyday needs. This setup makes it perfect for smooth, electric-only city drives, while the generator ensures you’re covered for longer journeys without worrying about running out of power.
Why don’t the Leapmotor C10 models include Android Auto or Apple CarPlay?
The Leapmotor C10 models skip Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as their infotainment system doesn’t support smartphone integration. Instead, the system is built around features specifically designed for the vehicle’s ecosystem. Unlike many other EVs, Leapmotor emphasizes creating a smooth, in-car experience powered by its own proprietary technology.
